Saffron and neurodegenerative diseases

Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is widely used as a traditional spice for flavoring, coloring and medicinal purposes.

As a traditional Chinese herb, saffron promotes blood circulation, removes blood stasis, cools and detoxifies the blood, relieves depression and calms the mind.

According to modern pharmacological studies, the active constituents of saffron, including crocetin, safranal and crocus aldehyde, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, mitochondrial function-improving and antidepressant effects.

Thus, saffron has the potential to treat neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) associated with oxidative stress, inflammation and impaired mitochondrial function, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and cerebral ischemia.

Source:Exp Ther Med. 2023 Apr 3;25(5):235.